GraduateSmart
GraduateSmart
Cares for patients who are ill, injured, recovering or living with a disability, in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, group homes and private residences. Takes vital signs, gives medications and treatments, dresses wounds and reports changes in a patient's condition, usually working under the direction of a registered nurse or physician. Entry requires completing an approved practical-nursing program and passing the national licensing examination.
$49,740
Lower reported wage
$64,400
Median
$83,440
Upper reported wage
Annual U.S. salaries. Actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience. The lower and upper figures do not represent starting and senior salaries.

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Create free account →LPN/LVN is a licensed role; state scope and renewal rules differ. [1]
Search CareerOneStop by occupation and state, then confirm the rules with the issuing agency. Coverage is incomplete; an empty result does not mean no license is required.
About license data coverageAsk whether any internship, field placement, or supervised training in your chosen route is paid; arrangements vary.
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U.S. career guide. Program, employer, and state requirements can differ.
SOC 29-2061, licensed practical and vocational nurses. May 2025 national median $64,400; 10th/90th percentiles $49,740/$83,440. Source reviewed 2026-09-21. Complete approved practical-nursing education and NCLEX-PN plus the requirements of the state nursing board; the exam alone is not a license.
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Compare tuition after aid, required supplies and exams, travel, and any unpaid training time for the route you choose.
Planning questions: request a written estimate from each program or sponsor. A total cost has not been verified here.
A related major can be preparation; it does not by itself qualify you for the career.
Direct route; verify state approval and clinical placement. [1]
Provide basic nursing care, monitor health, and report changes to the team. [1]
Nursing facilities, hospitals, clinics, and home care. [1]
Usually full time; shifts may include nights, weekends, or holidays. [1]
Patient needs, physical activity, and scope-of-practice limits require attention. [1]
Experience and further education can support specialty work or an RN route. [1]
These are possible directions. Promotion timing and pay depend on the role and employer.